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If you’re searching for a dessert that feels both comforting and delightfully special, the Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is a must-try. Imagine tender, golden-baked apple wedges lightly coated in warm spices, paired with a luscious caramel cream sauce that adds just the right touch of indulgence. This dish strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and decadent, making it a charming treat any time of year, whether as a cozy family dessert or a sweet snack to brighten your afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that shine through every bite. From the natural sweetness of apples to the richness of butter and cream, every element is essential to achieving that perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and creaminess.
- 4 large apples, cored and cut into wedges: Choose firm, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds a rich, silky coating that helps the sugar and spices cling to the fruit.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Brings deep sweetness and helps to caramelize the apples during baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides that warm, cozy spice flavor that complements apple perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Offers an extra layer of fragrant spice, but feel free to skip if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The base for the dipping sauce, delivering luscious creaminess and richness.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar for sauce: Sweetens and thickens the caramel cream sauce, echoing the apple toppings.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for sauce: Adds depth and smoothness to the dipping sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the sauce with a gentle sweetness and fragrant warmth.
How to Make Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Toss the Apple Wedges
Start off by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, toss your cored and wedge-cut apples with the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and optional nutmeg until every wedge is beautifully coated. This mixture ensures each bite bursts with sweet and spiced flavor.
Step 2: Bake the Apple Wedges
Arrange the apple wedges in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, giving each piece enough space so they roast nicely rather than steam. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through to ensure even golden caramelization. When done, your apple fries will be tender, juicy, and beautifully caramelized around the edges.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce
While the apples are baking, it’s time to make the star companion—the caramel cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter. Stir continuously as the sugar dissolves, watching the sauce thicken ever so slightly after about 5 minutes. Remove it from heat and gently stir in the vanilla extract to give the sauce its irresistible, comforting aroma.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your oven apple wedges are best served warm, paired with the smooth caramel cream dipping sauce. This contrast between tender fruit and silky sauce makes for an unforgettable bite, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
How to Serve Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra love on top can elevate this dish in a snap. Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the warm apple wedges for a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey also brings beautiful sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh mint leaves add a burst of color and freshness, brightening each bite.
Side Dishes
This delightful dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a slight tang. For a brunch twist, serve alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles, turning these apple fries into a sweet and spiced complement that everyone will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the wedges and dipping sauce in mini glass jars or ramekins, letting everyone dip and enjoy at their own pace. You can also thread the apple wedges on skewers for an easy-to-eat finger food version. For gatherings, arrange the wedges beautifully on a wooden board with small bowls of the caramel cream sauce and garnishes around it for a visually inviting spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover apple wedges and sauce, store the apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the caramel cream dipping sauce separately in a small jar or bowl to maintain its creamy consistency.
Freezing
While fresh is always best with this dish, you can freeze the baked apple wedges individually on a tray before storing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. The caramel cream sauce does not freeze well, so prepare it fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat the apple wedges, warm them gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp. Warm the caramel cream sauce on the stove in low heat, stirring constantly to restore its smooth texture, before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm, tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work beautifully because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a great flavor balance.
Is there a dairy-free version of the caramel cream dipping sauce?
Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free butter alternative to keep the sauce rich and creamy while making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
How do I know when the apple wedges are done baking?
The wedges should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a lovely golden-brown caramelization on the edges. Flipping halfway ensures even cooking and color.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the apple wedges in advance, store them tightly covered in the fridge, and warm them before serving with freshly made caramel cream sauce for the best taste and texture.
What can I do if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can lightly grease your baking sheet with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, but parchment paper is ideal for effortless cleanup and maintaining the wedges’ shape.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm, spiced apple wedges paired with a creamy caramel sauce that just makes your heart smile. The Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying—a perfect little indulgence to brighten up any day. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own cozy tradition!
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Oven Apple Wedges Fries with Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Oven Apple Wedges Fries paired with a luscious Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce. This warm, comforting dessert features tender baked apple wedges lightly coated in butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, served with a creamy caramel sauce that’s simple to prepare. Perfect for a healthy yet indulgent fall treat that’s vegetarian-friendly and easy to whip up in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Apple Wedges
- 4 large apples, cored and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Caramel Cream Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Apple Wedges: In a large bowl, combine the apple wedges with melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and optional nutmeg. Toss thoroughly to coat all wedges evenly with the spiced sugar mixture.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated apple wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through to achieve a golden, tender finish on all sides.
- Make Caramel Cream Sauce: While the apples bake, pour the heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract to finish.
- Serve: Plate the warm apple wedges fries and serve alongside the caramel cream dipping sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful, warm dessert immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the apple wedges just before serving.
- To make a dairy-free version of the dipping sauce, substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream.
- These apple wedges fries are best enjoyed fresh and warm right out of the oven to preserve their crispness and flavor.
